Team Descriptions

We are from the same “school”, yet we have more than one team competing. In the middle school division this is rather like a “varsity” and “junior varsity” team arrangement. The goal of having differing levels of teams is to allow everyone to participate. Although we have different team levels, we very much root for one another and help each other succeed. There is some good-natured competition between the teams, but a “better-than-thou” attitude or a lack of helpfulness towards others on the part of any team member will not be tolerated

Alpha Team

Our Alpha team has advanced to Nationals many times since 2004. Although it is not guaranteed to be this year’s outcome, it is important that students wanting to be on the Alpha Team are aware that this is our goal and of the commitment it requires. Each Alpha team family is expected to fundraise or pay for their student’s trip to Nationals, (as well as a parent to accompany said student!)

The Alpha team requires an extra level of commitment. Alpha team members are expected to master their events. They are also expected to spend time mentoring other students—either Beta and/or Gamma. Spots on this team are awarded to students who show a high level of commitment and competency in their events.

Beta Team

This is a training team, though still very competitive as they have gone to state every year also. Team members will be encouraged to try their best and learn their events well. Alternates for the National tournament are selected from the Beta Team.

Gamma Team

If we have enough students, we will also have a Gamma team. This team allows students to learn about the events and Science Olympiad in a participatory, rather than a competitive, way. Although they still attend the competitions, and individuals often medal, it is mostly for the experience, rather than the chance to win a medal. This is also a good option for families who have students who are intimidated by competition, but are interested in learning about the topics covered in the events.

High School Team

We would love to have more high school students on our team! We encourage each student to try and medal in each of their events at the regional and state tournament. This looks good on resumes and college applications and has helped some of our students take advantage of other opportunities such as the Boeing Internship and college scholarships. Also, the national competition often has scholarships available for medal winners.

Team Placements

Alpha Team

Our “Alpha” team is an elite, nationally competitive team. Therefore, all spots on the Alpha team must be earned. There are NO guaranteed spots on Alpha. Every fall, our Alpha team has 15 open spots. If your student was on the Alpha team previously, they are more likely to earn a spot again. However, it is possible to be on Alpha one year and NOT be on Alpha the next year.

Beta Team

Our “Beta” team is not as competitive as the Alpha team and generally, those who wish to compete on Beta, usually can. However, in years when we have more students interested in competing, placement on the Beta team is also earned.

Gamma Team

Our “Gamma” team is the team for trying out Science Olympiad. Any student who wishes to be on the “Gamma” team will be given a spot. The only testing for spots on “Gamma” that MIGHT occur is if we have too many students all wanting to compete in the same event. However, this testing is just for a specific event, not to get on the team.

High School Team

Our High School Team placement is as competitive as the demand warrants. Generally, our high school team has enough open spots that anyone who would like to participate, usually can. However, if the time comes that our high school team has more students wishing to compete than there are positions, we will create a second high school team and use the same placement criteria as for the middle school division.

Team Placement Criteria

Test Performance Events desired/conflicts on tournament scheduleExperienceStudent Work EthicFamily SupportBuilding EventsPersonalityAgeTeam DynamicsTeam Goals All team placement decisions will be made by the Core Leadership Team. The decisions will not be made until after team testing has been completed. Team Placements will be announced by the Head Coach ONLY. Placements will be announced by phone and/or email.